Brown Rice Pilaf

Delicious Brown Rice Pilaf Recipe with Mushrooms, Carrots, and Green Onions

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brown Rice Pilaf is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the freshness of parsley and green onions.

History

Pilaf is a dish that originated in the Middle East and Central Asia, where rice is cooked in seasoned broth to create a flavorful and aromatic side dish. Brown rice pilaf is a healthier alternative to traditional white rice pilaf, as it is higher in fiber and nutrients.

Ingredients

0.5 tsp instant chicken bouillon
0.75 cup quick cooking brown rice
0.25 tsp crushed dried marjoram
2 tbsp snipped fresh parsley
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
0.5 cup shredded carrot
0.25 cup thinly sliced green onion

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, stir together bouillon granules and 1 cup of water.
Bring to a boil.
Stir in mushrooms, brown rice, carrot, marjoram, and a dash of pepper.
Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 12 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes.
Add green onion and parsley, and toss lightly with a fork.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp to make this dish a complete meal.
Use different herbs and spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to change up the flavor profile.
Substitute quinoa or barley for the brown rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use quick-cooking brown rice for this recipe to ensure that the rice cooks evenly and quickly.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

- For a richer flavor, you can use vegetable or beef bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.

Serving Suggestions

Brown Rice Pilaf pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect Brown Rice Pilaf is to simmer the rice in seasoned broth until it is tender and fluffy. Be sure to let the rice stand for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh mushrooms, you can use canned mushrooms instead. You can also substitute dried parsley for fresh parsley, but use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Brown Rice Pilaf ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Just be sure to add the fresh parsley and green onions right before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Brown Rice Pilaf in a decorative serving dish and garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Brown Rice Pilaf pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled salmon, roasted pork tenderloin, or sautéed tofu. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Brown Rice Pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the pilaf until heated through, or reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brown Rice Pilaf contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brown Rice Pilaf contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Brown Rice Pilaf contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Brown Rice Pilaf contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Brown Rice Pilaf is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the brown rice. It may also contain soy if the bouillon used contains soy ingredients.

Summary

Brown Rice Pilaf is a nutritious side dish that is low in fat and calories, and high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Brown Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that is easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement a wide range of main courses. With its earthy mushrooms, sweet carrots, and fresh herbs, this pilaf is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Brown Rice Pilaf. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the culinary secrets that my grandmother had passed down to me. I can still recall the way the fragrant aroma of spices and herbs filled the air as she cooked, and the way her hands moved with precision and grace as she prepared each dish.

I had always been drawn to the kitchen, watching in awe as my grandmother whipped up delicious meals from scratch. She had a way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and I was determined to learn her secrets. So, one day, I mustered up the courage to ask her to teach me how to make one of her most beloved dishes – Brown Rice Pilaf.

My grandmother smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. She knew just how much I admired her cooking, and she was more than happy to share her knowledge with me. She took me under her wing, guiding me through each step of the recipe with patience and care.

First, she showed me how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant, filling the kitchen with their mouthwatering aroma. Then, she added the brown rice, toasting it lightly in the pan to bring out its nutty flavor. Next came the broth, a rich and savory liquid that would infuse the rice with even more depth of flavor.

As the rice simmered on the stove, my grandmother taught me the importance of patience in cooking. She explained how each ingredient needed time to meld together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that would tantalize the taste buds. I watched in awe as she worked her magic, turning a handful of simple ingredients into a dish that was nothing short of spectacular.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of waiting, the Brown Rice Pilaf was ready. My grandmother scooped out a generous portion onto my plate, sprinkling it with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. I took my first bite, savoring the complex flavors that danced across my palate. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a symphony of spices and textures that left me craving more.

From that day on, Brown Rice Pilaf became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, impressing my loved ones with the skills I had learned from my grandmother. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think back to that fateful day in the kitchen, when I first discovered the magic of this recipe.

Over the years, I have continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create my own unique spin on my grandmother's classic recipe. But no matter how many variations I try, nothing can compare to the original Brown Rice Pilaf that she taught me how to make.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to the next generation, I feel a sense of pride and nostalgia wash over me. I am reminded of the countless hours spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning from the best teacher I could have ever asked for. And as I watch my own grandchildren cook up a storm in the kitchen, I know that the tradition of Brown Rice Pilaf will live on for generations to come.